The Power Driver Method

Here is a simple way to use
power in getting people to act. It is
particularly pertinent for urgent and important situations when there is no time
to wait for consensus.

Know

Start by knowing what's up and what needs doing. If you are not clear with
others, you will only cause confusion or rebellion. And you cannot be clear with
others unless you are clear yourself.

Depending on the situation, you may or may not have much information about
the matter that needs your power. When action is clearly needed, then do not
wait. You can find out more as you mobilize.

It can help to know the other people. If you have already built a good
relationship with them they will be more likely to comply with your commands or
urgent requests, and especially if you have established your position of
authority.

Grab

Grab the lead. Take charge. Do not wait to be asked. In moments of confusion,
people look around for strong leadership. Be that person.

Grab the people. Not physically, of course. Grab their attention and hold it
as you quickly summarize the situation. Show them your energy to lead. Inspire
their confidence with your confidence.

If you need to, fend off challenges to your leadership. Ask people directly
if if they are ready to work with you. Stress the importance of them doing
exactly as you say.

Point

Direct the action. Tell people what they must do. Set them to action right
away. Give everyone a job. As appropriate make people team leaders. Select
people who will carry your energy into action.

If they ask questions, answer only those relevant to the situation. Bat away
irrelevant points with 'not now' responses. Answer to clarify what needs doing.
Always keep communicating.

If there is danger, point people away from this. Appoint people to safety
positions as needed.

As situations change, redirect the action, ensuring both the most urgent and
most important actions are taken.

Drive

Drive the action, ensuring it keeps going at a quick pace. Watch for people
slowing down and chivvy then back up to speed.

Keep informed. Get people to be your eyes and ears, regularly reporting back
to you with news of progress and changes in the situation.

Be seen. Get around the people, ensuring they are acting as needed and
offering to find support to make them optimally effective. Keep energy levels
up. Be the catalyst that releases their energy.

Beware of getting dragged into doing things yourself, other than token
actions that serve most to motivate others. Your job is to hold the big picture,
to understand what is going on and direct people accordingly. When big decisions
need to be made, you need to be there, not embroiled in some minor activity.

Thank

Throughout, thank people for their help. Tell them their actions are
important. Show your gratitude and then ask them to take the next step. Thanking
is a simple and highly motivating reward.

And when you are done, celebrate with everyone and thank them again. Leave
them feeling proud of what they achieved and ready to rally around you when you
need them again.